Synopsis
Mentoring is a cornerstone of professional development, especially in the dynamic fields of cost engineering and project management. It is a system of semi-structured guidance whereby one person shares their knowledge, skills and experience to assist others to progress in their own lives and careers.
This presentation explores the mechanics and significance of mentoring, demonstrating how structured guidance can accelerate career growth, build technical expertise, and enhance leadership capabilities.
Drawing on real-world use cases, interactive discussions, and audience participation, the session will provide actionable insights into determining and building successful mentoring relationships and cultivating a culture of mentorship in organizations. There will also be a showcase of the AACE Mentor Network just to demonstrate to members the Association’s platform for focused mentoring.
As undeniable stewards of organizational transformation, irrespective of business size, Cost Engineers and Project Practitioners are at the forefront of driving successful outcomes in capital investments. Thus, the session will end with a set of thought-provoking Call to Action that makes the mentor-mentee relationship a win-win deal for the average practitioner and their employers.
Come – let’s rub minds.
Objectives
This speech aims to:
- Define mentoring and its impact on cost engineering and project management professionals' career trajectories.
- Discuss the mechanics of a successful mentoring relationship, including setting goals, communication, and measuring progress.
- Demonstrate how mentoring enhances team productivity, knowledge transfer, and leadership development.
- Address common pitfalls in mentoring and strategies to overcome them.
- Encourage audience participation through case studies, role-playing scenarios, and group discussions.
- Showcase the AACE Mentor Network and a Call to Action.
Author’s Bio:Akinlolu (Akin) Oni, MBA, CCP, PMP, CPTM, DTMAkin Oni is a lifelong leadership student and senior project executive with expertise in Transactions, Capital Investments Governance & Assurance, Megaprojects Delivery, Project Management Services, and Engineering Project Management Training in multi-industry environments – Oil, NatGas, LNG, and Mining, and across continents.
Akin holds a bachelor’s degree, with honors, in Mechanical Engineering, an executive MBA in Project Management and various practice credentials. Akin is a member of professional groups such as the AACE International, PMI, SPE, ASME, Toastmasters International, etc. He is a 2-Time Distinguished Toastmaster awardee. He sits on the Education Board of AACE International.
As a professional, he enjoys working with senior business executives and project leadership teams to bring strategies to live, in a manner that culminates in value creation and measurable growth. He also writes and delivers papers at conferences, mentors up-and-coming project management professionals, facilitates roundtables, and participates in global industry forums.
When he is away from his desk, he enjoys spending quality time with his family, traveling, photography, volunteering, writing, wellness and all things real FOOTBALL (a.k.a. SOCCER)!